19 Dec 2014
In late November, 2014, 27 students and 3 staff from Oberon High School went to Milson Island Sport and Recreation camp, on the Hawkesbury River.
An early departure from school, a feed at McDonalds, and we crossed the Hawkesbury River by ferry to Milson Island. Bull sharks are among the marine life that lives in these waters, which had some of the students a bit worried. Once at camp, we met our instructors for the 3 days and settled into our accommodations. One instructor, James, took the whole group for a walk around the Island and talked about the history of the Island including its use as a mental institution and a gaol.
First activity on Day 1 was archery. It was very pleasing to see how the students took to the archery range and enjoyed the different games that were played using a bow and arrow. Some of the students showed exemplary skill due to previous experience and were quick to give a few pointers to their peers. The second activity was fencing (with swords, not posts). Again, not many students had any experience but were eager to learn and participate.
During the evening on the first night all of the teachers and students were involved in a trivia night. It was the teachers verse the students and ultimately the teachers won.
On the morning of our second da ywe went to a private beach where we had to build a fire and cook damper. After many unsuccessful attempts we finally managed to keep the fire going long enough to cook the damper. After this activity, students and teachers either went fishing or went for a swim. Only one fish was caught but all students enjoyed the peaceful environment and magnificent views that were on offer.
After lunch, students and staff were tested even further when they had to kayak across the Hawkesbury River to a shipwreck of HMAS Parramatta. The water was very rough due to the tide changing and the wind was very strong. All of the students however, rose to the challenge and completed the activity giving them a sense of achievement and satisfaction.
During the evening, student would play different games which were enjoyed by all who participated which was made even better by having chocolate milk and cookies for supper.
On our final morning, we would be completing the most daunting challenge yet, the high ropes course. Some students and even one of the teachers were very worried about completing this activity. The ropes course was broken up into two, one being about 3.5- 4 metres up and the other being 8 metres up. For some of the students it was highly enjoyable with many students opting to go a second or third time and displaying some of their athletic abilities.
The camp offered students the opportunity to push their own limits, strengthen already established friendships, form new friendships and most importantly, it was a good time shared by all.
To all of the students who participated, Mrs Nicole Francis and Mrs Tara Morrison, thank you for contributions that made the camp a fun and worthwhile adventure with many wonderful memories created.
From all of the Year 10 students and staff, a big thank you to Mrs Sandra Mackey-Galea who had organised the whole excursion and we all wish you could have been there with us all.
(Written by Mr Trent Grantham)
